Chapel Hill, N.C. ------ University of North Carolina head coach Butch Davis announced Friday that sophomore quarterback Mike Paulus has decided to transfer.

A native of Syracuse, N.Y., Paulus plans on attending the College of William & Mary. Paulus played in four games at North Carolina as a redshirt freshman in 2008 and was 4 of 13 for 33 yards.

He did not see any action this season.

"Mike came to me a few weeks ago and asked to be released from his scholarship so he could transfer to an FCS school," said Davis.

"Mike is seeking an opportunity where he can receive more playing time and I respect his wishes," Davis added. "We've enjoyed having Mike in our program and I appreciate his time and his commitment during the last three seasons Over the last few weeks, we reached out to various programs and helped him with his decision as he narrowed his choice. Mike has great character and I wish him nothing but continued success in the future."

"I'd like to thank the University of North Carolina and the coaches for all the support and help they have given me in making this decision," said Paulus.

"I'm extremely grateful to have been a part of this program and University for the last three years. It's a very special place. I'd like to thank my teammates for their support and also the great relationships I've developed with them."

"I'm ecstatic about the possibility of attending the College of William & Mary in January," Paulus added. "It's a great academic institution with a top-notch football program. I look forward to playing for Coach (Jimmye) Laycock and competing for the quarterback job."

"I will not travel with Carolina to the bowl game, because I feel it is in my best interest from a competition and preparation stand point to start working toward my goals immediately."